Companies House ID Verification (IDV)

For UK Company Directors and Persons of Significant Control (PSCs)

“You need to prove who you are to set up, run, own or control a company in the UK” – Companies House.

What is ID Verification and why do I need to do this?

To reduce the risk of fraud, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) will require UK company directors and PSCs to verify their identity with Companies House. This will be legal requirement and is designed to deter people from using companies for illegal reasons. In turn, it will improve the accuracy of information held on the Companies House register.

When will this need to be done by?

From 18 November 2025, you will not be able to file documents (e.g. CS01) or set up a new company with Companies House without your ID verified.

Who will need to do this?

It will be needed if you are:

• A company director or equivalent (e.g. members, general partners and managing officers)
• A Person of Significant Control (PSC)
• An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) (e.g. accountants and lawyers)
• A person who files documents on behalf of a company (e.g. a company secretary)

If you are a director of a company, either a new company or one that has been established for a long time, you will need to verify your identity.

You will only be required to verify once, unless otherwise requested.

What is a Person of Significant Control (PSC)?

There are 3 types of PSC’s:

1. A PSC that is a person and also a director – the ID date is the date of the next CS01
2. A PSC that is a person but not a director – the ID date is the PSC’s date of birth. Please note this is before the next CS01 date
3. A PSC that is a company but not a director – will not need to verify themselves

What do I need to have to verify my identity with Companies House?

You can verify your identity yourself online with GOV.UK. Whether you are doing it yourself or using an ACSP you will need to provide:

• A form of biometric ID or a UK photo driving licence
• A GOV.UK One login (to connect to your Companies House account)
• Your address history

If you do not have photo ID (but live in the UK) you can verify your identity at the Post Office (in person) or with bank or building society details along with your National Insurance number.

How can I do this?

You can ask an ACSP to help you (e.g. an accountant or solicitor) and they must be a Companies House authorised agent.

At Perrys we are assisting clients using the free Companies House method. If you are not an existing client but would like more details about this, please email us at secretary@perry-company.co.uk.  

What happens after I have verified my identity with Companies House?

After you have verified your identity, you will receive a Companies House personal code and this is a code for you personally, not the company. Keep this code safe as you will need it to file certain documents or make changes with Companies House. You will have to share this code for someone to file on your behalf e.g. an ACSP, but other than that you should keep this code safe like you would other unique codes.

What will happen if I don’t action this?

Without verifying your identity, you won’t be able to file documents with Companies House or start new companies or entities. Non-compliance may result in penalties or fines, and continuing to act as a director without verification could be considered an offence once the requirement becomes law.

In conclusion

Verifying your identity is something that you can do yourself online, but your agent can help you. Please contact your local Perrys branch if you need assistance.